Pilots Claim Championship Title With Win Over Lancers

Crossroads League Championships Central

NAPPANEE, Ind. ---The Bethel Pilots (17-2-2) have claimed the 2025 Crossroads League Tournament Championship trophy, following their 1-0 defeat over the Grace College Lancers (13-6-3) on Wednesday evening.

The matchup took place at Wellfield Park Soccer Field in Nappanee, Ind., and marks the Pilots' fourth championship title over the last five seasons (Indiana Wesleyan 2021, Spring Arbor 2022, Grace 2023). 

Wednesday's match was a defensive battle from start to finish, with both teams fighting to control possession through regulation. Neither side found the net in 90 minutes, sending the game into double overtime.

With one minute and 27 seconds left on the clock in the second overtime, forward Julian Vargas Talamantes delivered the game-winning goal to clinch the conference title for Bethel. 

Julian shared, "I'm so proud of this team and how far we've come. We'll celebrate this win, but our eyes are already on the next challenge.We keep pushing towards our goal!"

Maarten Schouten anchored the defense, earning another shutout with key saves to preserve the clean sheet.

Bethel outshot Grace 12–7, including six shots on goal and six corner kicks to the Lancers' two. 

With the victory, the Pilots claim the Crossroads League Championship title and expect to advance to the NAIA National Tournament.

The NAIA Selection Show will be streamed via the NAIA Youtube Channel at 6 PM on Friday evening. 

For more information about Bethel Pilots Athletics, visit bupilots.com or follow @bupilots on Instagram, Facebook, and X using #TheRightWayToPlay.

Photography Credits: Kate Cooper